Pasta And Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting bean and pasta soup featuring tender Great Northern beans, smoky bacon, and flavorful vegetables, simmered in a savory tomato broth. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep, this dish offers a wholesome taste with rich, smoky, and savory notes that satisfy and nourish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the beans overnight in water.
- Combine water, salt, the whole carrot, and soaked beans in a 6-quart pot.
- Simmer until the beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of vinegar or a dash of hot sauce to the soup just before serving. If you don't have Great Northern beans, white cannellini or navy beans can be substituted. Bacon can be omitted for a vegetarian version, and smoked paprika can be added for depth instead. Consider using homemade vegetable broth for a more robust base.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pasta and bean soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad like Twenty-Four Hour Salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Bar-B-Que'D Pork Chops for a hearty dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pasta and bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but be aware that the pasta may become soft upon reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta And Bean Soup contains roughly 1627 calories, with 57g protein, 384g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (744% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 726mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If using canned beans, skip the soaking step and reduce the cooking time. Add the canned beans in the last 15-20 minutes of simmering to heat them through and allow them to absorb some of the flavors.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last stages of cooking for a fragrant boost. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors. You might also include diced potatoes or other vegetables for added nutrition and variety.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well. However, it's best to freeze it without the pasta, as cooked pasta can become mushy when thawed. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta separately and add it when reheating the soup for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).